What is pesto pasta salad?

Pesto pasta salad is a cold or room-temperature dish made with pasta, pesto sauce, and various vegetables or cheeses. It's a versatile and flavorful meal that's perfect for picnics, potlucks, or a quick lunch.

How long does pesto pasta salad last?

Pesto pasta salad can typically last for 3-5 days in the refrigerator, when stored properly in an airtight container. Be sure to check for any signs of spoilage before consuming.

Can I use store-bought pesto for pesto pasta salad?

Yes, you can definitely use store-bought pesto to make pesto pasta salad. It's a convenient option when you don't have time to make your own. Look for high-quality brands for the best flavor.

What are some good additions to pesto pasta salad?

Some great additions to pesto pasta salad include cherry tomatoes, mozzarella balls, grilled chicken or shrimp, sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and pine nuts. Get creative and add your favorite ingredients!

Is pesto pasta salad healthy?

Pesto pasta salad can be a healthy and satisfying meal, depending on the ingredients used. Opt for whole wheat pasta, load up on fresh vegetables, and use a moderate amount of pesto to keep it on the lighter side. This makes for a healthy dish.

Perfect Pesto Pasta Salad: 7 Easy Tested Secrets

Name: Pesto Pasta Salad: Quick Vegetarian Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, farfalle, fusilli); 1 cup pesto (fresh or store-bought); 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved; 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls, halved or quartered; 1/2 cup black olives, sliced; 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced; 1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Description

This Pesto Pasta Salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines perfectly cooked pasta, fresh pesto, and colorful vegetables. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound pasta (rotini, penne, farfalle, fusilli)
1 cup pesto (fresh or store-bought)
1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls, halved or quartered
1/2 cup black olives, sliced
1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
1/4 cup pine nuts, toasted
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

1. Cook the pasta according to package directions until al dente. Drain and rinse with cold water.
2. Halve cherry tomatoes, slice black olives, and thinly slice red onion.
3. In a large bowl, combine pasta, tomatoes, mozzarella, olives, and onion.
4. Pour pesto over the mixture and toss gently.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, then season with salt and pepper.
6. Sprinkle with toasted pine nuts.
7. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Salad
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Calories: 350
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 300mg
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 20mg